Lovelyish

Jeans aren’t exactly the best wardrobe option for summers here in Texas, but some women (myself included) just don’t feel like showing off our legs in shorts. Which is why dresses are a huge staple in my summer wardrobe, and there have been summers when I haven’t worn one pair of pants or shorts between May and September. Here are a few of my favorite 2012 dress trends; check them out and see if you’d like to cool off in them, too!

There are few better summer themes than the nautical look. The navy and white combo here looks good on most skin tones, and the brown belt breaks up this pattern nicely.

Missing Slink Dress, $52.99 from ModCloth

While this dress color isn’t exactly seasonal, the cut is perfect for a candlelit patio dinner. Pair it with some bright accessories to look less somber and more summery.

I know, more nautical! But the bow and collar make this dress nicely romantic, and the sleeves are long enough to cover up your upper arms. I never feel comfortable wearing the spaghetti strap look that’s so prominent in the summer, so dresses like this fill my closet!

Summertime is the best opportunity to get away with fun, silly prints like this. Cutesy bird dresses are huge right now, but why not take a twist on the trend with some whimsical flamingos?

Length, sleeves and a retro look? Yes, please, since those are my ultimate summer dress requirements. And the coral color would look great with most tans.

Every gal needs a wild dress for those rambunctious summer nights. This one is sure to turn heads on the dance floor, at a bar or wherever your adventures take you.

I could never imagine facing a summer without dresses on my side, and these are all pieces I’d love to have in my wardrobe. Do you wear dresses often? What styles are your favorite?

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